National fair-trade conference at York University to inspire Canadian businesses
10th annual conference at York – a leader in Canada’s fair trade having recently achieved Fair Trade Campus silver status – will encourage businesses to lead the future of ethical trade
TORONTO, Feb. 12, 2025 – The 10th National Fair-Trade Conference, hosted by Fairtrade Canada, will convene business leaders, advocates, and changemakers at York University from Feb. 14 to 15.
The event will explore how Canadian businesses are at the forefront of fair-trade innovation, strengthening ethical supply chains, and responding to the growing demand for sustainable products both at home and globally.
With the theme Better Business, Brighter Future, a lineup of sessions and speakers will highlight the intersection of ethics and profitability.
"Fairness, integrity, and community are at the heart of how we do business in Canada,” says Julie Francoeur, CEO of Fairtrade Canada. “Companies across the country are proving that ethical trade isn’t just a choice – it’s a responsibility. This conference is about celebrating that leadership and giving businesses the tools to keep driving change at home and around the world."
Key discussions will focus on how Canadian companies can leverage fair trade to enhance their global competitiveness, build consumer trust, and drive long-term success. Attendees will gain insights on integrating sustainability into business strategy, the role of fair trade in addressing social and environmental challenges, and the opportunity for industries to lead in creating a more equitable global economy.
“At York, we bring sustainability to life by fostering impactful individual, community, academic and institutional practices that contribute to a brighter future for both people and the planet,” says Rhonda Lenton, York University president and vice-chancellor. “As a designated Fair-Trade Campus and one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, I am delighted that York was chosen to host the 10th National Fair-Trade Conference in partnership with Fairtrade Canada. Together, I am confident that we can raise awareness and mobilize action around sustainability and fair trade in ways that have a lasting positive impact.”
Welcome addresses will take place on Friday, Feb. 14 at 5:30 p.m. with David Peters, York University interim provost and vice-president academic; Olivia Chow, City of Toronto mayor; Sandra Sturgess, vice-president of strategic accounts and partnerships, Chartwells, Compass Group, and emceed by Julie Francoeur, CEO Fairtrade Canada.
Panels will include speakers from across Canada’s business community, including Jennie Coleman, president of Equifruit; Roxanne Joyal, founder and CEO of &BACK COFFEE; Taylor Stanley, corporate impact strategy manager at Riverside Natural Foods; Adam Pesce, president of Reunion Coffee Roasters; Mark Marsolais-Nahwegahbow, founder of Birch Bark Coffee Co.; Alissa Ward, sustainability & CSR associate at Tentree; and many more.
The conference will also host a Youth Round Table, led by Ana Laura Sayago, a honey producer from the COOPSOL cooperative and a youth representative on the Board of Fairtrade’s regional producer network in Latin America and the Caribbean (CLAC). Sayago will provide a unique lens on how the next generation is shaping the future of fair trade.
Strengthening Canada’s Ethical Economy
This conference is more than just an industry gathering – it’s an opportunity to strengthen Canada’s leadership in responsible business practices. As Canadian companies face increasing expectations for transparency and sustainability, fair trade offers a proven model to build stronger, more ethical supply chains. The event will provide practical tools, success stories, and strategic insights to help businesses navigate evolving market demands while reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a leader in sustainable trade.
WHAT: 10th National Fair-Trade Conference
WHEN: Feb. 14 to 15
WHERE: York University Keele Campus
Registration: https://fairtrade.ca/conference/
About Fairtrade Canada
Fairtrade Canada is the Canadian chapter of Fairtrade International, the global leader in fair trade standards with more than three decades of experience working for more equitable trading practices in over 100 countries.
About York University
York University is a modern, multi-campus, urban university located in Toronto, Ontario. Backed by a diverse group of students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners, we bring a uniquely global perspective to help solve societal challenges, drive positive change and prepare our students for success. York's fully bilingual Glendon Campus is home to Southern Ontario's Centre of Excellence for French Language and Bilingual Postsecondary Education. York’s campuses in Costa Rica and India offer students exceptional transnational learning opportunities and innovative programs. Together, we can make things right for our communities, our planet, and our future.
Media Contacts:
Sandra McLean, York University Media Relations, 416-272-6317, sandramc@yorku.ca
Fairtrade Canada: media@fairtrade.ca
